Using the theories of Erikson, Vaillant, and Levinson, create a set of 15 questions related to the socioemotional, physical, and cognitive development of middle-aged people.

Use your approved questions to interview two middle-aged people (they may be your parents, relatives, or friends). Note: American

Psychological Association (APA) ethical guidelines indicate that interviewees have the right to refuse to answer any question posed to them by an interviewer. Please ensure that your interviewees are aware of this and do not force an answer where the opportunity to reply has been refused.

From your interviews, write an essay of 1,000-1,500 words in which you relate your findings.

Where are your interviewees in relation to the development stages of Erikson, Vaillant, Levinson, and Peck?

Explain your rationale for placing the interviewees as you did.

Prepare this assignment according to the APA guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center. An abstract is not required.

More info for when you write it: Remember that it's not just a report of what your interviewees say. You need to tie their responses in with the theoretical information.

Not good:

"Do you feel like you're leaving a legacy?" Answer: "Yes."

Also not good:

"The interviewee felt that they were leaving a legacy." [Still no mention of the theorist]

Good:

"The interviewee said that they felt happy about the way she's raised her children, and she continues to encourage them in developing their careers and growing their families one day. These are clear indicators of Erikson's concept of generativity at play in her life."